Composting

What is composting?

Composting takes place naturally when leaves fall from the trees to the ground. Microbes, minute living creatures in the soil, break down the leaves and organic matter. They produce humus which is rich in the nutrients that plants need for healthy growth. The home gardener can take advantage of this natural process by creating their own compost for use in the garden.

What are the benefits of composting?

Composting has many benefits for the gardener as well as for the environment.

Disposes of home and garden waste naturally instead of filling the landfills.

Helps to improve soil structure.

Helps the soil hold moisture and improves air circulation.

Slowly releases essential plant nutrients into the soil

What materials do I need to compost?

Generally two types of materials are needed.

Dry or brown materials provide the microbes in the soil with the energy they need to break down organic waste.

Autumn leaves

Sawdust

Hay or straw

Dead plants (no weeds, no diseased)

Fresh or green materials provide nitrogen for decomposition.

Kitchen waste - leftover fruits and vegetables

Grass clippings

Fresh manure

Green plant cuttings (no weeds)

Trimmings from hedges

Flowers

Coffee grounds

What materials should I NOT compost?

Human waste or feces

Pet feces

Diseased plants

Noxious weeds

Oily and fatty foods

Meat and bones

Treated wood

Dairy products

Chemicals

Dead animals

How do I make my compost?

Step 1: Choose a large container to hold the compost. You can build one yourself or buy premade ones from your local garden centers. Place your container in a location that is near a water source, out of the way, and easy to access.

Step 2: Layer your compost materials making sure to get an equal mix of green and brown materials. Your compost will take longer to break down if a large amount of brown materials are added. Alternately, if you add an excess of green materials your compost will be slimy.